Shilpi Khetarpal

Guest Editor for the following articles:

The ethnic and racial composition of the US population is changing rapidly. There is a continuous rise of individuals with mixed ethnic backgrounds comprising skin of color. It is important for physicians to be comfortable addressing and treating the needs of this population, as it differs significantly from the white population.

This review seeks to highlight the current scientific explanation of skin color and hair texture, with special attention to people of African descent, in an attempt to give insight into the clinical presentations of hair and skin disorders seen in this group.

This review provides an integrated summary of the hair-care practices of female African American patients and the potential for exposure to sensitizing agents at each stage. This review will also discuss the challenges faced in recognizing and assessing ACD in these patients.